NetJets pilots ratify contract

The unionized NetJets pilots, represented by IBT Local 1108, on November 21 overwhelmingly ratified the tentative labor agreement signed on October 8, nearly four years after the pilots’ contract became amendable. Of the valid 1,924 ballots received (about 91 percent of the NetJets pilot workforce), 1,616 (84 percent) voted for the work contract and 308 (16 percent) opposed it. The five-year contract improves pilot wages and job security and increases productivity at the fractional provider. NetJets Aviation president Bill Boisture, who refused to comment during pilot negotiations, said the agreement “is fair…[and] recognizes the important role that our pilots play and positions the company to continue to lead the fractional jet industry in the future.” NetJets captain and Local 1108 master executive council president Bill Olsen noted, “The new pilot contract has taken what was a flying job and turned it into a career opportunity.” The new contract, which took effect on November 21, makes NetJets pilots the highest paid in the fractional industry.